Procurement Assistant SC5

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for individuals recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Assistant position at WFP involves providing essential procurement services within the WFP Kyrgyz Republic Country Office. The role is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness, transparency, and integrity of procurement processes. The Procurement Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Lead Procurement Associate and will be responsible for promoting a client-oriented, quality-focused approach within the procurement unit. This position requires close collaboration with various internal units, including Programme, Finance, Administration, and Budget & Programming, as well as with other UN agencies and WFP Global Headquarters staff to resolve procurement-related issues and ensure timely information delivery. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting the procurement of goods and services necessary for efficient field operations, contributing to WFP's mission of providing food assistance to those in need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Assistant will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: performing administrative procurement activities in a timely manner to support professional staff in acquiring goods and services; compiling data and preparing documents to support procurement programs; reviewing and prioritizing purchasing requests; coordinating and monitoring the delivery of procurement requisitions; researching and presenting information for decision-making; managing and maintaining procurement databases; liaising with internal counterparts to align procurement activities with wider programs; providing technical support to other staff; following emergency preparedness practices; preparing contracts and supporting documentation for approval; ensuring compliance with UN/WFP rules and regulations; facilitating bids opening and conducting procurement analysis; identifying potential suppliers; and contributing to overall office work and tasks beyond the specified responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a post-secondary certificate in a related functional area, with internationally recognized certificates in sourcing or procurement being advantageous. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible support experience in procurement or a related field is required. Familiarity with procurement processes, UN system policies, and WFP guidelines is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate sound judgment, time management skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams. Proficiency in using computers and office software packages, as well as automated procurement systems, is essential.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. A post-secondary certificate in a related functional area is required, and further university education in procurement or a related field is considered an advantage. Internationally recognized certifications in sourcing or procurement will enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or a related field. Experience in conducting analyses, developing reports, and working with suppliers on a day-to-day basis is essential. Familiarity with locally purchased commodities and progressively responsible procurement experience, whether national or international, is required. Candidates should also have experience utilizing automated procurement systems and managing databases effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English, Russian, and Kyrgyz is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role within the WFP Kyrgyz Republic Country Office. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to WFP's values and principles, contributing to a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization offers an attractive compensation package, which will be detailed in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.